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Tareka Wheeler

Director of U.S. Programs

“Keeping my children safe and healthy is my No. 1 priority, and it’s great to work for an organization that keeps children safe around the globe.”

Tareka started her journey in injury prevention seven years ago when she became the program coordinator for Safe Kids Austin in Austin, Texas. Working closely with a Level 1 trauma center at her lead agency allowed Tareka to get a close look at how injuries to children profoundly affect families and communities, and how those injuries could be prevented by partnering with local and state agencies, developing strategic plans and mobilizing the community. She brings those same skills and passion to Safe Kids, providing leadership and direction on the development of programs and initiatives local coalitions can use to educate parents and caregivers on how to keep their children safe.

Blogs by Tareka

As a mother of three active kids, I know bumps and bruises are bound to happen – my kids love to try new things and push their limits – but there are ways to prevent the more serious injuries that don’t have to happen.

In 2013, more than 47,000 children were treated in emergency departments for injuries related to sledding, ice skating and snowboarding, and the vast majority of these injuries were preventable.

It’s that time of year again. On Sunday, March 9, the clocks go forward, the days get longer and families get an extra precious hour of daylight. Perfect for moms like me who want our kids outside playing as long as possible.

But what you may not know is that Daylight Savings is also a great time to check your smoke alarms to make sure the batteries are fresh.

When my oldest son, Terrell, was 2 years old, he was quite the little terror – I mean angel. Like many kids, he was super busy and got into everything. One day he gave me a scare when he climbed a stool by the counter in our kitchen and grabbed my mug of hot tea. I’m talking right out the kettle, super-hot tea.